Isle Of Sheppey pumping stations replacement
The Brief
The Isle of Sheppey sits largely below sea level, protected by a network of drainage channels. When tidal levels are high, gravity drainage stops and pumping becomes the only means of water level control. The southern marsh is Ramsar-designated, a Special Protection Area and Site of Special Scientific Interest. Both Harty and Leysdown pumping stations had reached the end of their serviceable life and required full replacement.
The Solution
The Lower Medway Internal Drainage Board appointed ACE as MEICA contractor on a single contract covering both sites simultaneously.
At the heart of each new station is a FishFlow Innovations enclosed composite Archimedean screw pump — 1.6 metres in diameter, set at 26 degrees, rated at 0.5 m³/s with a maximum capacity of 0.69 m³/s. The enclosed composite construction — glass fibre reinforced throughout, covering the inner pipe, flights, and outer casing, carries a design life of 60 to 80 years. In a sealed environment with continuous
exposure to tidal drainage, this eliminates the corrosion liability that steel alternatives accumulate over time.
The enclosed design also removes the pinch point between helix and trough present in open-trough alternatives. The pumps are tested and certified to NEN 8775 — the standard recognised by the Environment Agency and Natural England for fish and eel passage.
Each station is equipped with a dedicated ACE eel pass: 35 metres total length, comprising a 15-metre climbing brush section and a 20-metre flushing section, served by Rotorflush pumps.
The Result
The project was successfully delivered on time and to specification, helping Lower Medway IDB enhance performance and sustainability at these critical drainage sites. The collaborative approach and sensitive environmental delivery have earned the project a nomination for an ICE (Institute of Civil Engineers) award.
Achievements
01
60-80 year design life
02
0.69m³/s maximum capacity (per pump)
03
35m eel pass length per station
04
46% reduction in cement content
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